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Baboon

Jul 21, 2011

Baboons are social animals. They live in large groups called troops.

Baboon

Design

Baboons are social animals. They live in large groups called troops, normally consisting of one dominant male and numerous females. The troop gives the young a good chance of survival. Baboons are omnivores but are able to survive strictly on vegetation, which is how they were originally designed.

Features

  • Depending on the species, the baboon can vary in color from yellow to red and gray to black.
  • Some species also have brightly-colored muzzles as well as colored rumps.
  • Males have large upper canines which are displayed in defense and attack.

Fun Facts

  • Baboons groom each other as part of their social behavior.
  • One species of male baboon kidnaps a female from her family unit to begin another family unit. He nurtures and care for her until she reaches maturity.
  • Baboons use gestures, lip-smacking, and facial expressions as well as vocal communication.

Created Kind Members

Mandrill, macaque

CLASS: Mammalia (mammal)
ORDER: Primates (monkeys)
FAMILY: Cercopithecidae (Old World monkeys)
GENUS/SPECIES: Papio (Five different species)

Size: 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m); varies within species
Weight: 30–90 lbs (14–41 kg); varies within species
Original Diet: Plants
Present Diet: Plants, grubs, insects, and small vertebrates
Habitat: Savannah, open woodland, and hills in Africa

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Supplemental material for the Zoo Guide: A Bible-Based Handbook to the Zoo

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